COURSE DESCRIPTION 2012 2013

Prof. Lorie M. Graham,

3 credits day; 3 credits evening. This course introduces students to the unique legal relationship that exists between the United States and its indigenous peoples. It covers a host of issues from domestic constitutional law, to property to international human rights law. The grade for this course is determined by class participation and a final take-home exam. Class participation includes attendance, participation in class discussions and group exercises, and review of current events. This course explores a body of law intended to address the legal relationship among American Indian nations, the federal government, and states. This body of law is expressed in treaties, federal statutes and regulations, Solicitor's opinions, and Supreme Court decisions. It is a rapidly expanding field that implicates other branches of legal study, such as constitutional law, property, administrative law, environmental law, international law, and federal jurisdiction. It also addresses the interests and rights of non-Indians vis-à-vis their legal encounters with indigenous nations and tribes. The course also considers the impact that American Indian law in the United States is having globally as Native groups from around the world move to establish rights to natural resources, sovereignty, and cultural diversity. As a practicing attorney, you are more likely than ever before to encounter Indian law issues - from business transactions to adoption to complex jurisdictional and choice of law questions. Beyond practice, the study of Indian law tells us a great deal about how our legal system deals with issues of pluralism and about the tenor and contemporary morality of society.

Enrollment is limited: 20

Elective Course

On List of Recommended Perspectives Courses

Meets International Law Concentration Requirements

Take Home Exam Required

LLM Course

Insurance Law